The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Captain (MC) Albert R. Behnke, Jr., United States Navy, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving with Radiological Defense Laboratory, San Francisco Naval Shipyard, from 31 January to 2 February 1959. Having volunteered to assist the recompression crew of Submarine Rescue Barge YFNX-10 whenever needed for emergencies, Captain Behnke was summoned to treat a civilian skin diver for an acute and potentially fatal case of decompression sickness. Captain Behnke reported to the barge immediately and took charge of the treatment. He entered the pressure chamber and began administering to his patient at 1230 on 31 January 1959 and remained there, under continuous pressure, giving medical aid and comfort until about 1230 on 2 February 1959, a period of 48 hours. At that time Mr. French had responded successfully and was removed from the chamber. During the entire period Captain Behnke worked continuously and with no thought either of relief or of the great hazard to himself. Captain Behnke’s professional skill, his physical stamina and his devotion to duty in the face of great danger to his health were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.